Testifying in court can be a horrible thing. Most citizen have never done it before and many people may never have to do it. Testifying in court is a situation where you must explain every details in front of complete stranger. Below is a list of Mr. Sedivy’s Higlands Ranch History on what you should do and don’ts when you find yourself in the middle of a testifying in court as a witness.
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Testifying in Court: the DOs and DON’Ts

TESTIFYING IN COURT

Tell the Truth!

Be yourself!

Be natural and use common language.

Try to avoid work related jargon or slang.

Your role is to testify, not to convince the jury.

Speak in a clear tone of voice.

Avoid covering your mouth or resting your chin on your hand while you arespeaking. Speak at a normal rate of speed so that the court reporter and the jury can hear your words.

When asked a question, pause, think about the question and think about your answer before you start talking.

Simple “yes” or “no” answers should be directed to the person who asked the question.

Longer, narrative answers, however, should be directed to the jury (or the judge if a jury is not present).

Answer the questions with a “yes” or “no,” if possible, then explain. Be brief and on point if a narrative answer is requested.

Avoid answering any question that you do not understand completely. Ask to have the question clarified.

I do not know or “I do not remember” are valid answers, if appropriate.

“I do not know” means that you do not and never did know something.

“I do not remember” means that you may have known something at some previous time, but do not remember it now.